1

Chief Engineer Fishing Vessels Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

Chief Engineer

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$65/hr

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Chief Engineer Fishing Vessels information

See salary details

$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do chief engineer fishing vessels jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief engineer fishing vessels in the United States is $92,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief engineer fishing vessel?

Chief Engineer Fishing Vessels are senior engineers responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of all mechanical and electrical equipment on a fishing vessel. They ensure that engines, generators, refrigeration systems, and other critical machinery function safely and efficiently during fishing operations. Chief engineers also supervise engineering crew, manage spare parts inventory, and ensure compliance with maritime regulations. Their expertise is vital for vessel safety and successful fishing trips.

What are some common challenges faced by a chief engineer on fishing vessels, and how can they be addressed?

As a Chief Engineer on fishing vessels, one common challenge is maintaining critical machinery and systems in harsh, unpredictable marine environments—often far from shore and outside immediate technical support. Quick troubleshooting skills and preventive maintenance are essential, as equipment failures can directly impact the vessel’s safety and fishing operations. Effective communication with the captain and crew is also key to ensuring smooth workflow, safety compliance, and timely repairs. Building strong knowledge of the vessel’s systems and fostering teamwork can help address these challenges and ensure successful voyages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief engineer on fishing vessels, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Engineer on fishing vessels, you need expertise in marine engineering, mechanical systems, and compliance with maritime regulations, typically gained through a marine engineering degree and relevant certifications (such as STCW or Engineer Officer licenses). Proficiency in using engine monitoring systems, maintenance management software, and diagnostic tools is essential. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and effective communication skills help manage the engineering crew and respond to emergencies at sea. These competencies ensure vessel safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance in demanding maritime environments.

What is the difference between Chief Engineer Fishing Vessels vs Marine Engineer?

AspectChief Engineer Fishing VesselsMarine Engineer
CertificationsSTCW certifications, Marine Engineering LicenseSTCW certifications, Marine Engineering License
Work EnvironmentFishing vessels, offshore shipsCommercial ships, cargo vessels, offshore platforms
Employer & Industry UsageFishing industry, maritime transportShipping companies, maritime industry

The Chief Engineer Fishing Vessels is specialized in managing the engineering department on fishing ships, focusing on fishing gear and vessel maintenance. Marine Engineers work across various types of ships, including cargo and passenger vessels, with broader responsibilities in ship propulsion and systems. While both roles require similar certifications and work in maritime environments, the Chief Engineer Fishing Vessels is specifically tailored to the fishing industry, whereas Marine Engineers have a wider scope across different vessel types.

What are popular job titles related to Chief Engineer Fishing Vessels jobs?

For Chief Engineer Fishing Vessels jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Chief Engineer Fishing Vessels job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Licensed Marine Engineer - Fishing Vessel

Dutch Harbor, AK • On-site

United States Seafoods LLC
Aquaculture and Fishing • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description:

United States Seafoods is a Commercial Fishing Company with factory trawlers out of Alaska. We are looking for entry level and experienced crew members to work on board our vessels. We are looking for full-time, long-term employees who are willing to work a rotating schedule throughout the year.


United States Seafoods is currently recruiting for a qualified Licensed Marine Engineer to work on one of our trawlers. A qualified Engineer should have Minimum of 3 years of marine engineering experience working onboard fishing vessels, and hold a USCG Engineer of Uninspected Fishing Vessel or greater.  


United States Seafoods fishes from January to November. Total crew size is 50 -70 crewmembers. Key crew work on a rotational schedule with roughly 60 days on/60 days off.  


A Licensed Engineer will –

  • Communicate daily with the Master, Office, and Counterpart
  • Carryout all orders, requests and duties as assigned
  • Perform maintenance and upkeep of all vessel equipment, including main propulsion, electrical generations, refrigeration plant, and hydraulics
  • Operate, monitor, and evaluate engine performance, delivering clear, concise and timely reports of any equipment failure or damage and propose how to remedy such failure or damage
  • Report all unsafe or un-seaworthy conditions to the Master
  • Assist in maintenance and repair of all fishing and factory equipment, including refrigeration when needed to ensure the factory is running and maintained
  • Directly Supervise and develop engine room personnel and support the factory technician, ensuring factory crew has the infrastructure for quality production 
  • Plan and coordinate use of manpower, material and equipment to ensure efficient maintenance of shipboard equipment, including overseeing inventory and organization of parts and storage
Requirements:
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience working onboard fishing vessels
  • USCG Chief Engineer of Uninspected Fishing Vessel or greater or DDE
  • Must be available for the full contract period (Approx. up to 90 days)
  • Adhere to the positions rotation schedule to ensure proper coverage


*Compensation is Competitive and based on experience


EEO Policy - 

The Company's equal employment opportunity policy prohibits unlawful discrimination with respect to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, color, religion, creed, national origin, disability, veteran or other status protected by applicable law. 


EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability